If there is any silver lining for a worker who gets hurt on the job, it is likely that their injury could qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Both those hurt in a specific precipitating incident, like a kitchen fire, and those diagnosed with a medical condition related to their job, like a hernia, could qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.
The coverage available includes total medical coverage that does not pass any costs on to the worker and disability coverage to replace a portion of the worker’s lost income. Benefits usually last until the worker can return to the job or they reach maximum medical improvement given their diagnosis.
What will you need to prove to get workers’ compensation benefits as an injured worker in Pennsylvania?
You must connect your condition to your job
If you got hurt in a car crash while making a delivery for your employer, there will likely be police reports and internal company records that will quickly show that your injury is the result of a job-related incident. Other workers may not have an incident report to refer to and will instead need medical evidence that shows their condition directly relates to the job that they perform.
Repetitive stress injuries, joint issues and illnesses related to chemical exposure can all qualify for workers’ compensation benefits once you prove that your condition is a result of your employment. Medical tests can help determine the extent of your injuries and also their likely cause.
You don’t have to prove your employer is at fault
One of the most persistent myths about workers’ compensation is that the company must be to blame. In reality, workers’ compensation in Pennsylvania is a no-fault program. Your employer could follow the law and safety regulations perfectly, and you could still qualify for benefits after a diagnosis or injury. You also won’t have an obligation to prove that you were not to blame for your injury. Even if you made a mistake on the job that led to you getting hurt, you can still qualify for benefits.
The more serious your condition is, the more expensive your claim may become, which may mean you have a harder time handling the process. Getting the right support can help those who worry about securing workers’ compensation benefits.